Tracheal collapse

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Tracheal stent in a dog

Tracheal collapse is a condition characterized by incomplete formation or weakening of the cartilagenous rings of the trachea. It can be congenital or acquired, and extrathoracic or intrathoracic. Tracheal collapse is most commonly found in small dog breeds, including the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Toy Poodle, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier.

Symptoms include a cough (often called a "goose honk cough" due to its sound), especially when excited. This cough is usually paroxysmal in nature. The condition is usually worse in obese dogs. Tracheal collapse is easily seen on an x-ray as a narrowing of the tracheal lumen. Treatment for mild to moderate cases include corticosteroids and antitussives. Severe cases can be treated with surgical implantation of a tracheal stent or prosthetic rings.

See also

• Tracheomalacia for the condition in humans

Reference